The outbreak of the Coronavirus has forced many Africans to stay closer home and taking shorter vacations. Many travellers are opting for staycations within their home countries, Nigerians and South Africans inclusive.
The Christmas season is almost upon us, but is accompanied by the ever-present fear of a second wave of COVID-19. So the pocket-friendly deals consequently being offered by most establishments eager to attract local travellers provide the ideal opportunity for that luxe mini-break we all deserve after the year we’ve had.
So whether you’re keen on keeping it hyper-local, or looking to venture further afield within Africa, read on for staycation deals you don’t want to miss out on.
- Oceanside pampering
Waking up to the sound of gentle waves and a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean is just the beginning of the memorable stay you can expect at Radisson Blu Hotel, Waterfront, in Cape Town. The seaside hotel is located close to the city centre, and the Mother City’s biggest attractions, including the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, Robben Island and luxury shopping destination, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Find your bliss with a complimentary upgrade to an ocean-view room, a cheese and wine selection, and the chance to choose one of two indulgent spa offerings at the hotel’s Amani Spa.
- Romance and chill
Need a couple’s retreat? Say no more! A stone’s throw from the Gautrain station in the heart of upscale Sandton, Radisson Blu Hotel in Johannesburg offers a luxe getaway with upgraded perks. Channel your own Kim and Kanye vibes as you enjoy a bottle of ice-cold bubbly in your suite, indulge your couple goals on the pool deck overlooking urban Sandton, then relish the good life with a delicious dinner for two at the contemporary Vivace eatery – all rounded off with breakfast in bed the following morning.
- Adventure break
Bold, vibrant and red-hot, Radisson RED, Cape Town, is a concept hotel like no other. The first RED on African soil, it offers the perfect home base for avid adventure seekers – and their furry friends (the hotel is 100% pet-friendly). Get active with an upgraded room, 10% off your food bill and two tickets to the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA), which is located right outside the hotel’s OUIbar + KTCHN. After a dose of culture, enjoy live music around the pool at sunset on the trendy RED rooftop.
- Safari-style
Perched on the Zambezi River with direct access to the Victoria Falls, the Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara is the luxury escape you always knew you needed. Wake up to the sight of wild game, raise a glass of bubbly at sunset while you take in the thundering of the majestic waterfall, or enjoy a spa treatment beneath the shade of monkey trees on the banks of the mighty Zambezi. African residents also enjoy 30% off their accommodation and daily gourmet breakfast.
- Style-cation
As the largest city in South Africa and the second biggest on the African continent, Jozi is home to premier businesses, international brands and high-flying financial institutions. Get a piece of the glitz and glam at Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel, Sandton, located just steps away from the Gautrain and Sandton City’s Diamond Walk. That’s where all the big celebs can be spotted shopping up a storm at Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton and the like. With upgraded room amenities, two-for-one drink vouchers and an outdoor pool where you can soak up the sun in an urban forest setting, you’d be forgiven for not wanting to return to the real world any time soon.
- Wine and dine
Nothing beats the charm and good nature of South Africa’s Friendly City. True road trippers know it’s a must-stop on any cross-country holiday. Make the most of your pitstop at Radisson Blu Hotel, Port Elizabeth, with a delicious dining experience, accompanied by a refreshing welcome drink. In the morning, take in the ocean views before enjoying a scrumptious breakfast.
- Island living
As Africans, we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to exotic vacation spots, and the idyllic island of Bazaruto may just be top of our list. With up to 40% off a luxury beach villa at Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort, you can unwind with excellent Mozambican and international cuisine, non-motorised water sports and a sail on a traditional dhow at sunset. Plus, as an African resident, your stay will include an in-room mini-bar, return boat transfers between Vilanculos and the resort, full-board dining including breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as daily beverages from a select menu of house wines and spirits, local beer, and soft drinks.
- Transit traveller
The latest addition to the Radisson portfolio in South Africa, Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre O.R. Tambo, Johannesburg, is the first Radisson-branded lifestyle hotel in South Africa, and the ideal layover for travellers in transit. Discover all the comforts of home at this upscale, full-service hotel, with an upgraded room and free breakfast, Wifi and parking. Plus, you’ll also score 20% off your food and beverage bill as part of the hotel’s “First Guest Staycation” offer.
- Urban dweller
Yummy food? The best of SA’s wines? Close proximity to almost everything? Cape Town’s suburbs offer the best of all worlds. Nestled in the surrounds of leafy Newlands, Park Inn by Radisson is just what’s needed to rid yourself of those COVID-19 blues. Receive a complimentary bottle of house wine and 20% off your food bill when you book your stay. And if you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, the hotel’s free shuttle service will take you right to where you need to be to indulge yourself at the local shopping malls.
- Into the wild
A five-minute walk away from the Victoria Falls, access to viewing decks at the Royal Livingstone Hotel and endless views of amazing wildlife are what await you at Avani Victoria Falls Resort. Situated in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, guests can enjoy 30% off their accommodation costs, daily breakfast, delicious cocktails and boma dinners, all rounded off with some traditional dance entertainment. Now that’s what we call wildly delightful!